Specialty Crop Block Grant Program

Specialty crops are defined as “fruits and vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticulture, and nursery crops (including floriculture).” A more comprehensive list of eligible specialty crops is at http://www.ams.usda.gov/scbgp.

To be eligible for a grant, the project(s) must solely enhance the competitiveness of U.S. or U.S. territory grown specialty crops in either domestic or foreign markets. Projects must also benefit more than one commercial product (e.g., ABC Company brand), organization, or individual.

A North Dakota priority survey identified these top issues: pest and disease control; development of organic and sustainable production practices; developing local and regional food systems; and investing in specialty crop research, including research to focus on conservation and environmental outcomes.